In single celled organisms, reproduction is synonym with growth. Also organisms like mule are sterile. So reproduction is not a definite characteristic of living organisms, like two elements combing can give rise to a whole new compound but the elements are non-living.

Also as I re-read the notes to answer your question, consciousness and cellular organization seem to be the only defining characteristics of living organisms. Non-living things can also have "metabolism" in them, i.e. chemical reactions in them. In vitro fertilization comes to my mind, also related to reproduction. Non-living organisms also have the property of a growth in a sense, as the material can both accumulate outside as well inside.

I really doubt that universe is alive. But then it's my personal opinion...